Osun State on Saturday, June 28, 2025, joined over 500 countries across the world to commemorate Olympic Day with a symbolic fitness walk through the streets of Osogbo, reflecting the global Olympic spirit of unity, fitness, and peace.
Leading the Osun State contingent was Chief Tunde Popoola, Secretary-General of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), alongside the host General Manager, Mr. Rotimi Dunmoye; Director of Sports in the Ministry, Mr. Layi Adesiyan; Director of Coaching and Training, Mr. Demola Daini; and Director of Organization, Mrs. Ronke Ogunbanwo.
The event began at the Osogbo Township Stadium, with participants walking through Ayetoro and Rano Roundabout along the Ring Road before returning to the stadium. At the conclusion of the walk, the team was warmly received by Hon. Abiola Jeremiah Awoyeye, Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, who represented the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, and his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, who also serves as the Commissioner for Sports.
During the celebration, Chief Tunde Popoola echoed the official Olympic Day message from the NOC President and International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel. The message paid tribute to the Olympic Movement’s founding ideals and emphasized the unifying power of sport.
“On Olympic Day, we remember the creation of the Olympic Movement by our founder Pierre de Coubertin. He wanted to make the world a better place through sport,” the message read.
“When we do sport, it keeps our mind and body strong and healthy. It inspires us to always give it our best, it makes us dream, spreads joy, and brings us together. This is the beauty of sport: it brings out the best in us, it builds bridges and solidarity, and no matter where we are or how we choose to move, we live our new Olympic motto — Faster, Higher, Stronger–Together.”
Chief Popoola, while addressing participants, further praised the Osun State government for its growing investment in grassroots sports development. He commended the commitment of Governor Adeleke and Deputy Governor Adewusi for their roles in revitalizing sports infrastructure and participation across the state.
He described Osun as a state “booming with sporting potential,” noting that many athletes from the state currently represent other regions in national competitions.
“I’m proud to say Osun is ready for sport. I’m from this state, and from the data we have, there are numerous talented sportsmen and women here. I’m excited to be part of this celebration and proud to see our stadium undergoing refurbishment. The culture of sport is alive and well in Osun,” Popoola said.
He concluded by thanking all participants and stakeholders for showing up in large numbers, aligning the state with the global call to “Let’s Move” — the theme of this year’s Olympic Day.
